This Phase II proposal describes the development of a comprehensive, field-ready, computer-based simulation for training in therapeutic ureteroscopy. Built on a foundation for simulating diagnostic ureteroscopy, the Phase II design combines elements from two recently advanced simulation platforms for training in operative hysteroscopy and endovascular procedures. Primary hardware challenges include integration of a Hysteroscopic Surgical Workstation (HSW) to simulate the difficult clinical step of gaining ureteral access, integration of an automatic tool capture mechanism that recognizes tools of different diameters, and integration of cystoscopic (rigid scope) and ureteroscopic (flexible scope) elements into a seamless whole. Planned software advances include developing architecture that supports therapeutic ureteroscopy procedures, improving the realism of such simulation components as deformable models and trainee evaluation, and adding rigid endoscopic access to and inspection of the bladder. Structured evaluation will help guide and validate system development. The completed system is expected to provide training for skills acquisition, maintenance, and assessment in important therapeutic interventions of ureteroscopy. A solid market potential exists for a computer-based simulator for training in both diagnostic and therapeutic ureteroscopy. This comprehensive simulator for therapeutic ureteroscopy will be built upon Immersion Medical's successful endovascular simulation platform and will have significant benefits in both military and civilian arenas for both treatment and diagnosis of patients. Immersion Medical's simulators have demonstrable benefits for patient care in areas such as improving practitioner performance, and for discriminating users based on procedural experience, and could improve military readiness through shortened recovery times. In success, this project will lead to production of commercially viable products with educational and training benefits for U.S. hospitals and medical schools.
Keywords: medical simulation, therapeutic ureteroscopy, haptics, education, tactile feedback
